Upon completion of the requirements for the Associate in Science Degree in Astronomy, students will be prepared to transfer to CSU/UC and obtain a baccalaureate degree in the following majors: astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. This degree is also a stepping stone toward research internships, entry-level opportunities within the field, e.g., observatory and planetarium operations, and provides a solid foundation for pursuing an advanced degree.

The department strongly recommends that all declared Astronomy majors complete the following courses prior to transfer:

Program Outcomes

1. Describe the constituents of the Universe and the relevant physical processes underlying their behavior.
2. Become familiar with the methods of observational astronomy and the analysis of data.
3. Develop the necessary knowledge and skills to analyze evidence and evaluate claims as related to astronomy.
4. Be prepared for admission to California State University/University of California schools in astronomy/astrophysics.

Associate in Science Degree Requirements

1. UNIT REQUIREMENT - 60 UNITS, with at least a 2.0 grade point average. At least 12 of the units must be earned at OCC, with a minimum of one course taken for a letter grade. At least 3 units in an advanced course from the program must be completed at OCC. A student must be enrolled at the time of application for graduation. Units earned at an accredited college or university on a credit/no credit basis will be counted toward the degree requirements of the college, to a maximum of 15 units.
2. MAJOR REQUIREMENT - Complete the AS major requirements.
3. MATHEMATICS REQUIREMENT - Demonstrate competence in mathematics by either obtaining a satisfactory grade (grade of “C” or better or“pass”) in a mathematics course at or above the level of Intermediate Algebra as demonstrated by prior coursework, or by demonstrating competency that is comparable through the completion of a college-level math course that has Intermediate Algebra as a prerequisite: Psychology A160 or Math A100 or higher, with the exception of Math A220.
4. GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENT - Students may choose to complete Option 1 (OCC AS GE), Option 2 (CSU GE), or Option 3 (IGETC) to satisfy the general education requirement. See the General Education Patterns section of this catalog for more information.

Program Sequence

These sequences at Orange Coast College are general course curriculum maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. The course sequence may include course prerequisites and other placement requirements. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.